YMCA Opens New Childcare Program

YMCA Opens New Childcare Program

Belgrade Panther Den Early Learning Center

The Gallatin Valley YMCA is well known for its youth programs in the valley. Their sports and dance classes keep kids active and involved with their peers. But did you know they also offer educational and functional childcare programs? These programs are not only fun but are also an ideal environment for kids to learn essential life skills and reach developmental milestones.

The Gallatin Valley YMCA offers four childcare programs dedicated to youth development including YMCA After School, Child Watch, Hawks Nest Early Learning Center and their newest addition, the Panther Den Early Learning Center in Belgrade. Each of the childcare programs are equipped with dedicated, trained staff, a development-driven curriculum and a fun, engaging environment.

One of their most prominent childcare programs is the Hawks Nest Early Learning Center, which operates out of Bozeman High School. Both Hawks Nest Early Learning Center and the Panther Den provide high-quality care for children ages 6 weeks to 5 years. Priority registration for ELC programs is given to teachers of the Bozeman and Belgrade School Districts and teen parents. This helps people in need of essential childcare get the assistance and care they need for their children. Additionally, both early learning centers accept Bright Beginnings and YMCA scholarships, ensuring no child is turned away for an inability to pay.

With their Early Learning Centers, the YMCA is able to support our community and create an environment for children where they can develop personal relationships, experiment, make choices, solve problems, develop age-appropriate social-emotional and self-help skills, and develop school readiness skills. All while giving parents/ guardians peace of mind that their children are being well looked after and cared for.

As kids age, their need for childcare doesn't go away but grows with them. The Gallatin Valley YMCA has started offering afterschool programs at both Gallatin Gateway School and Ridgeview Elementary. These after-school programs are offered only to students in grades K through eighth (Ridgeview K through fourth) who attend either Ridgeview or Gallatin Gateway Elementary Schools. In these programs, school-aged kids are provided with a fun and educational environment while they wait for their parent or guardian to pick them up. Both programs experiment with STEAM projects, construct creative crafts, play outside, work on homework and more – all under the supervision of a trained after-school staff.

Another program well known to many YMCA members is the Child Watch program. Child Watch provides on-site childcare for children 8 weeks to 9 years during your visit to the YMCA facility. The goal is to provide a positive and fun experience for children in a safe and secure environment and give parents/guardians a reprieve while they focus on their health and wellness. Each day the Child Watch team uses a proactive and fun curriculum such as themed art projects, a movement space, storytelling and interactive play to help engage children in learning and fun.

Whether it's all day, after school or even drop-in, childcare is an essential tool for many parents and guardians. The Gallatin Valley YMCA is proud to offer the staff, space, time and dedication it takes to provide parents with quality childcare. They are committed to expanding childcare offerings as our community and capacity grow.